A bus driver in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, on duty Spring Festival received some snacks and a 10-yuan hong bao (red envelop with lucky money) from a passenger. The gift expresses the passenger's gratitude toward the driver and all others who work during public holidays to make life convenient for holidaymakers, says an article on people.com.cn. Excerpts:

Since the bus company forbids drivers from accepting money from passengers as personal gifts, the driver tried to return the 10 yuan ($1.59) to the passenger.

During Spring Festival, when most of the people were enjoying their holiday with their families and friends, bus drivers and many other people such as police personnel and street cleaners had to work.

The hong bao conveyed the passenger's obligation to the driver on the traditional Chinese festival, and in this sense, the driver is beyond reproach even if he accepted it. In fact, the real value of the hong bao is not money; it is the feeling.

Passengers should also help drivers and contribute to the building of a harmonious public transport environment by abiding by rules such as waiting in queue and vacating a seat for those in need. This is perhaps the best way to express one's regards for people such as bus drivers, who sacrifice their holidays for the convenience of others.

(China Daily 02/02/2012 page9)